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BEng (Hons)/MEng Mechanical Engineering will develop you as a skilled engineer capable of undertaking mechanical engineering tasks within and across organisations. The course focuses on the importance of sustainable futures and the Government's STEM agenda, in order to give you the knowledge and attributes you will need to thrive in this ever-changing industry.

You'll work on industry-standard analytical tools, develop your design skills, as well as exploring a wide range of facilities, such as our test cell and exhaust analysis equipment.

Want to know more?Find out about our integrated master's degrees.

Our engineering courses focus on project-based activities, giving you lots of opportunity to work in teams on projects from design to implementation. This will give you practical experience of applying engineering science to real world problems, working in multidisciplinary teams to develop your interpersonal skills, and prepare you for a key aspect of modern engineering practice. Problem solving and project management are key skills for an engineer, and our focus on practical experience will help to improve your skills in these highly sought after areas.

During your studies, you will use the latest tools and technologies, developing new skills at an advanced level. The course will encourage your creative thinking and develop your engineering leadership skills. Building on a foundation of the generic skills required by tomorrow’s engineers, you will also explore the wider context of engineering, as well as the application of advanced engineering principles to solve problems through research and development. You’ll engage in independent study and systematic enquiry at an advanced level and take responsibility for the conclusions drawn from it.

You will have lots of opportunity to apply industry-standard modelling and simulation techniques to the analysis, specification and design of mechanical engineering systems so that you are able to apply your knowledge and theory to a practical situation. In this way, we make sure you are ready to step straight into employment.

Expert help and advice

Katja Wotton Srbljanin began her engineering career as a technical apprentice for Rolls-Royce in 2008 and is now developing in her current role at Siemens.

I decided to study at Birmingham City University because while I was in full time employment this course offered everything that I needed part time and covered all the modules that I needed to progress in my career role.

The course offered all the different practical elements as well as the theoretical elements for power generation and design – the subjects that I enjoyed and wanted to progress on to in my career. Katja Wotton Srbljanin

Why Choose Us?

The course offers a seamless progression from BEng to Master’s-level award. You will have the opportunity to engage in extracurricular activities, such as Formula Student and Engineering without Borders, to gain real-life experience of engineering

Open Days

Our next Open Day for this course will take place on 29 June 2019. Visit us to see our facilities and speak to our staff and students.

Special Unconditional Offer Scholarship Scheme

We want our students to achieve their full potential. So, if you receive a Special Unconditional Offer from BCU and then go on to Meet or Beat our published entry requirements, you could be eligible for a £1,000 scholarship.

*Term and Conditions apply - some undergraduate courses are not eligible for this scholarship.

Where our students go

We are members of:

WISE members inspire girls to choose maths, physics and computing.

Entry Requirements

BEng

We accept a range of qualifications, the most popular of which are detailed below.

UK students

Essential

At the point of application, you must have or be working towards GCSE at Grade 4 (C) or above in English Language and Mathematics. Equivalent qualifications can be considered in lieu of GCSE subjects as long as the required subject are covered.

In addition you must attain at least a grade C in A Level Mathematics or equivalent. Please see below for specific information about this requirement.

112 UCAS tariff points from A Level with a minimum of 2 A Levels

Typical Offers

UK Qualification

Requirements 2019/20

GCE A Level/ AS Level

BBC at A Level or 112 UCAS tariff points from A Level with a minimum of 2 A Levels and including A Level Maths at grade C or above.

Access to Higher Education Diploma

60 credits overall. Minimum of 45 credits at level 3. Including 12 credits at Merit or Distinction with 9 in Mathematics and 3 in Science. Must already hold GCSE Mathematics and English Language Grade 4 or higher or the equivalent at application point or currently taking.

BTEC National Diploma (12-units not including early years)/ Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma

D*D* or combined with other level 3 qualifications to achieve a minimum total of 112 UCAS points. A Distinction in Mathematics for Technicians unit or a Merit in Further Mathematics for Technicians unit.

Combined with other level 3 qualifications to achieve a minimum total of 112 UCAS points. In addition, you will require a grade C in A Level Mathematics or equivalent such as a Distinction in Mathematics for Technicians unit or Merit in Further Mathematics for Technicians unit.

International Baccalaureate Diploma

Obtain a minimum of 28 points overall with a minimum of Grade 5 in Mathematics (Higher Level) and pass one of the following subjects from Group 4 at Higher Level (Computer Science, Chemistry, Design Technology, Physics). Students who do not complete the IB Diploma will be considered on the basis of their IB Certificates and alongside other acceptable level 3 qualifications to meet 112 UCAS Tariff Points. Obtain a total of 14 points or above from three Higher Level Subjects.

For students who do not already hold a GCSE in Mathematics at Grade C/4 or above Grade 5 or above in Mathematics at Standard Level will be accepted in lieu of this from the IB Diploma. For students who do not already hold a GCSE in English Language at Grade C/4 or above Standard Level English Language (not literature) Group A English Group A - Grade 4 or above, OR English Group B Grade 5 from the IB will be accepted.

Students who do not complete the IB Diploma will be considered on the basis of their IB Certificates. A combination of GCSEs, A-levels and IB certificates will be considered on a case by case basis.

Irish Leaving Certificate

Pass the Irish Leaving Certificate with a minimum of 112 tariff points, achieved in four Higher level subjects. Maths must be at Higher Level. Must include English Language taken at either Ordinary level (minimum grade O1-O4 (or A-C/A1-C3)) or Higher level (minimum grade H5/D1).

Scottish Higher/ Advanced Higher

Achieve a minimum of 112 tariff points achieved in either three Advanced Highers or from a combination of two Advanced Highers plus two Highers. Where three Advanced Highers have been taken achieve a minimum of grades CCD. Where a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers have been taken you must achieve (grades of CD in two Advanced Highers plus grades of CC in two Highers). 2 advanced highers with Mathematics at advanced highers or equivalent grade BBC.

Welsh Baccalaureate (core plus options)

Combined with other level 3 qualifications to achieve a minimum total of 112 UCAS points. Plus an A level Maths at grade C or above (or equivalent)

or Distinction in Mathematics for Technicians or Merit in Further Mathematics for Technicians.

Obtain a minimum of 28 points overall with a minimum of Grade 5 in Mathematics (Higher Level) and pass one of the following subjects from Group 4 at Higher Level (Computer Science, Chemistry, Design Technology, Physics). Students who do not complete the IB Diploma will be considered on the basis of their IB Certificates and alongside other acceptable level 3 qualifications to meet 112 UCAS Tariff Points. Obtain a total of 14 points or above from three Higher Level Subjects.

For students who do not already hold a GCSE in Mathematics at Grade C/4 or above Grade 5 or above in Mathematics at Standard Level will be accepted in lieu of this from the IB Diploma. For students who do not already hold a GCSE in English Language at Grade C/4 or above Standard Level English Language (not literature) Group A English Group A - Grade 4 or above, OR English Group B Grade 5 from the IB will be accepted.

Students who do not complete the IB Diploma will be considered on the basis of their IB Certificates. A combination of GCSEs, A-levels and IB certificates will be considered on a case by case basis.

Additional Information

This course is also available as a four-year degree with foundation entry.

MEng

We accept a range of qualifications, the most popular of which are detailed below.

UK students

Essential

At the point of application, you must have GCSE at Grade 4 (C) or above in English Language and Mathematics. Equivalent qualifications can be considered in lieu of GCSE subjects as long as the required subject are covered.

In addition you must attain at least a grade C in A Level Mathematics or equivalent. Please see below for specific information about this requirement.

128 UCAS tariff points from A Level with a minimum of 2 A Levels

Typical Offers

UK Qualification

Requirements 2019/20

GCE A Level/ AS Level

ABB at A Level or 128 UCAS tariff points from A Level with a minimum of 2 A Levels and including A Level Maths at grade C or above.

Access to Higher Education Diploma

Pass overall in an Engineering Access diploma with 60 credits, 45 at Level 3 and 15 at Level 2, including with a minimum of 15 credits at Merit or Distinction with 9 credits of these credits from Mathematics units and 6 credits in Science units. Must already hold GCSE Mathematics and English Language Grade C or higher or the equivalent at application point.

BTEC National Diploma (12-units not including early years)/ Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma

D*D* or combined with other level 3 qualifications to achieve a minimum total of 128 UCAS points. A Distinction in Mathematics for Technicians unit or a Merit in Further Mathematics for Technicians unit.

Combined with other level 3 qualifications to achieve a minimum total of 128 UCAS points. In addition, you will require a grade C in A Level Mathematics or equivalent such as a Distinction in Mathematics for Technicians unit or Merit in Further Mathematics for Technicians unit.

International Baccalaureate Diploma

Obtain a minimum of 32 points overall with grade 4 or above in at least one Higher Level subject from Group 3 or 4: Students who do not complete the IB Diploma will be considered on the basis of their IB Certificates if they obtain a total of 16 points or above from three Higher Level Subjects with grade 4 or above in at least one Higher Level subject from Group 3 or 4 and alongside other acceptable level 3 qualifications to meet 128 UCAS Tariff Points.

For students who do not already hold a GCSE in Mathematics at Grade C/4 or above grade 4 in Maths (Standard Level) from the IB Diploma will be accepted Engineering related courses. For students who do not already hold a GCSE in English Language at Grade C/4 or above Standard Level English Language (not literature) Group A - Grade 4 or above, English Language Group B Grade 5 from the IB will be accepted.

A combination of GCSEs, A-levels and IB certificates will be considered on a case by case basis.

Irish Leaving Certificate

Pass the Irish Leaving Certificate with a minimum of 128 tariff points, achieved in four Higher level subjects. Maths must be at Higher Level (grade TBC). Must include English Language taken at either Ordinary level (minimum grade O1-O4 (or A-C/A1-C3)) or Higher level (minimum grade H5/D1).

Scottish Higher/ Advanced Higher

Achieve a minimum of 128 tariff points achieved in either three Advanced Highers or from a combination of two Advanced Highers plus two Highers. Where three Advanced Highers have been taken achieve a minimum of grades CCB. Where a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers have been taken you must achieve (grades of CC in two Advanced Highers plus grades of CC in two Highers).

Obtain a minimum of 32 points overall with grade 4 or above in at least one Higher Level subject from Group 3 or 4: Students who do not complete the IB Diploma will be considered on the basis of their IB Certificates if they obtain a total of 16 points or above from three Higher Level Subjects with grade 4 or above in at least one Higher Level subject from Group 3 or 4 and alongside other acceptable level 3 qualifications to meet 128 UCAS Tariff Points.

For students who do not already hold a GCSE in Mathematics at Grade C/4 or above grade 4 in Maths (Standard Level) from the IB Diploma will be accepted Engineering related courses. For students who do not already hold a GCSE in English Language at Grade C/4 or above Standard Level English Language (not literature) Group A - Grade 4 or above, English Language Group B Grade 5 from the IB will be accepted.

A combination of GCSEs, A-levels and IB certificates will be considered on a case by case basis.

International Students

Award

Start

Mode

Duration

Fees

BEng (Hons)

Sep 2019

FT

3 years

£12,300 per year

MEng

Sep 2019

FT

4 years

£12,300 per year

If you're unable to use the online form for any reason, you can complete our PDF application form and equal opportunities PDF form instead. The University reserves the right to increase fees in line with inflation based on the Retail Prices Index or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament up to a maximum of five per cent.

Guidance for UK/EU students

UK and EU students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.

The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.

School or college experience

Non-accredited skills or achievement

eg Duke of Edinburgh Award, Young Enterprise scheme.

You should also mention your future plans – if you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons. Talk about any subjects you’re studying that don’t have a formal assessment and any sponsorships or placements you’ve applied for. And don't be scared to add in details about your social, sports or leisure interests.

*Non-EU students are not required to submit a personal statement when applying for this course.

Fees for part-time students

Several undergraduate degrees are available on a part-time study basis. These are usually studied over five or six years with fees due based on credit requirements each year.

If you study over six years, the you will pay 50 per cent of the full-time annual fee each year.

If you study over five years, you will pay 50 per cent of the full-time annual fee for years one and two, and 66 per cent of the full-time annual fee for years three to five.

Additional costs

There are no compulsory additional costs or charges associated with studying on this course. While you may choose to purchase personal copies of text books, all our key text books are available from our library or online (subject to normal library loan and online access arrangements). If your course includes a residential study session, the accommodation costs for this are already included in your course fee.

Based on the past experience of our students, you might find it helpful to set aside about £50 for each year of your studies for stationery and study materials. All our students are provided with 100 free pages of printing each year to a maximum total value of £15.

Accommodation and living costs

The cost of accommodation and other living costs are not included within your course fees. More information on the cost of accommodation can be found in our accommodation pages.

The additional costs listed here are to be used for indicative purposes only and are based on the additional costs for the 2018/19 academic year. The additional costs for 2019/20 will be published as soon as possible.

Worried about personal statements?

If you've got no idea where to start or just want to check you're on the right track, we’ve got expert advice and real examples from our students to help you nail your personal statement. You can even download our ultimate personal statement guide for free.

Financial Support

We offer further information on possible undergraduate financial support. This includes the type of loans, grants and scholarships available both from the government and from Birmingham City University.

Year One

In order to complete this programme a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):

Engineering Principles 1

20 credits

The module aims to provide the underpinning knowledge and problem solving skills in engineering science to enable you to progress to the next module in the theme, Engineering Principles II, and then on to the second year of a range of engineering degrees.

As the practical aspects of engineering science are delivered in another theme of the common first year, the Engineering Principles modules concentrate on the theoretical aspects. The subject material will be delivered in two coherent streams one of which contains predominantly mechanical science and the other contains predominantly electrical science

The module aims to provide the practical and professional skills to enable you to progress to the next module in the practical theme, Practical Skills II, and then on to the second year of an engineering degree. As the theoretical aspects of physical science and maths are delivered in other themes of the first year, the Practical Skills modules concentrate on the practical aspects.

The subject material will be delivered in three coherent streams one of which contains predominantly mechanical and electrical laboratory exercises, a second PC-based stream will include use of software to support project planning, communication and analysis and the third, a project space where you have the opportunity to integrate learning from across all elements of the semester.

Mathematics plays a key role in establishing and grounding the skills of an engineer, and the ability to communicate the ideas of engineering that are expected of an engineering graduates.

The primary aim of this module is to provide the fundamental mathematical knowledge and techniques needed in order to enable you to use and apply such mathematical techniques for the evaluation, analysis, modelling and solution of realistic engineering problems. Application of these data sets has to include their interpretation both to and from the mathematical language. In addition, this module will introduce students to mathematical modelling software package. This will be used to plot, annotate basic signals and write simple programs to compute mathematical problems.

This module will develop your ability to both work on and communicate engineering realities to a wider audience, at a professional standard.

The module aims to provide the underpinning knowledge and problem solving skills in engineering science to enable you to progress to the second year of a wide range of engineering degrees. As the practical aspects of engineering science are delivered in another theme of the common first year, the Engineering Principles modules concentrate on the theoretical aspects. The subject material will be delivered in two coherent streams one of which contains predominantly mechanical science and the other contains predominantly electrical science.

This module will focus on introducing and building on well-established techniques for mathematically modelling dynamic systems (systems of interest for engineering) for contextualised engineering applications. The module will include an introduction to sophisticated signal analysis technique, Fourier series which is used to transform time-domain signals into their frequency spectra. The module is structured to include a mixture of lectures, tutorials and PC-based laboratories. The lectures will formally introduce material, in tutorials students will work through questions with tutor. The PC laboratories will involve using mathematical modelling software packages to implement mathematical operations.

The module aims to provide the practical and professional skills to enable you to progress on to the second year of an engineering degree. As the theoretical aspects of physical science and maths are delivered in other themes of the first year, the Practical Skills modules concentrate on the practical aspects.

The subject material will be delivered in three coherent streams one of which contains predominantly mechanical and electrical laboratory exercises, a second PC-based stream will include use of software to support project planning, design, communication and analysis and the third, a project space where you have the opportunity to integrate learning from across all elements of the semester.

Year Two

In order to complete this programme a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):

Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics

20 credits

The module aims to provide a basic understanding of thermodynamic and fluid mechanic concepts. The understanding of the transfer of energy within thermodynamic systems and the incurred losses is vital to improve efficiencies of such systems, especially in light of growing environmental concerns and increased economic cost.

The knowledge and understanding will be gained through a balanced mixture of lectures and tutorials, whereby the learning will be supported by experiments.

The module provides you with the opportunity to learn about design, sustainable development, teamwork and communication whilst contributing towards real international development projects.

You will also gain the ability to communicate design ideas and practical details, to evaluate and apply both tangible and subjective feedback, and to conceive, design, implement and operate practical solutions to design opportunities.

It is anticipated that the project vehicle for this module will be the Engineers without Borders Design for People Challenge.

The module introduces the mathematical concepts such as transform calculus and matrix theory used to solve systems of first and second order differential equations underpinning the engineering disciplines undertaken within the Faculty.

This provides you with the capability of modelling systems using both the transfer function and statespace paradigms. In particular, you will be able to model linear systems in continuous and discrete time as well as by frequency response methods.

Teaching and assessment will comprise not only traditional lectures and tutorials but also provide training in industry standard software for problem solving within coursework assessment.

An interdisciplinary module, you will work with students from all fields of engineering to develop skills in engineering leadership and experience creating a purposeful vision and delivering on that vision. This will set the professional skills for business in context by combining your technical course-specific knowledge with professional skills. It is proposed that the vehicle to deliver this will be the biomimicry global design challenge.

The Mechanical Science module applies the principles of engineering, physics, and materials science to the design, analysis, manufacture, and maintenance of mechanical systems and components. It is a branch of engineering that enables you to design, produce, and operate machinery. In keeping with the programme philosophy the module encourages learning through the practical application of fundamental mechanical science principles to the analysis and solution real world problems.

The course is delivered by way of an introductory lecture to a particular real world problem, such as vibration, and the underlying mechanical science principles used to tackle the problem. You will then engage in interactive tutorials where you will practice applying underlying mechanical science principles to real world problems.

You will also gain the ability to communicate design ideas and practical details, to evaluate and apply both tangible and subjective feedback, and to conceive, design, implement and operate practical solutions to design opportunities.

Year Three

In order to complete this programme a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):

Computer Aided Engineering

20 credits

In the development cycle of new and existing components, processes and systems the use of computer analysis has a strong role to play. Reduced lead times can mean faster arrival at the market than competitors and therefore gaining an advantage. Engineers are at the centre of the development process and therefore require a good understanding of the key aspects of computer aided engineering (CAE).

This module will expose you to key aspects of computer aided engineering with regards to the fundamental principles behind the screen, the selection of appropriate boundary conditions and methods for a solution, as well as raising awareness of the limitations of CAE.

The module introduces you to the mathematical tools underpinning the analysis, modelling and design of complex vibrating systems and mechanisms as well as the software tools within an appropriate simulation environment used for their solution. Industry standard software will also be used for the design of dynamical control systems using both time and frequency domain techniques.

Teaching and assessment will comprise not only traditional lectures/tutorials, but also use of industry standard software for the purposes of mathematical modelling, all of which are assessed by examination.

Mechanical engineers nowadays solve problems of high and multidisciplinary complexity. Although computational solutions generally lead to reliable results, the engineer should always attempt to validate the findings by alternative methods. This requires a thorough understanding of the underlying problems, but also the approach of reasonable simplification of complex systems without compromising validity.

The dependency of the current economy of fossil fuels as source of power requires a shift in thinking by engineers and companies to design and develop more efficient machines, processes and systems. The module therefore aims to provide you with the knowledge and understanding required to analyse thermodynamic systems concerned with conversion processes between heat and work. In addition the issues and limitations of the energy generation process play also a vital part and how energy can be recovered from processes to improve the overall efficiency.

The module follows the Mechanical Engineering programme philosophy of developing your intellectual and practical competence in the thermodynamic, power generation and energy conversion aspects of mechanical engineering. Formal lectures, tutorials, hands-on experience in labs and solving of problem based scenarios will enhance the learning process.

The purpose of the module is to enable you to undertake a sustained, in-depth and research-informed project exploring an area that is of personal interest to you. In agreement with your supervisor, you will decide upon your topic which will take the form of a practical outcome (artefact) with accompanying contextual material. The main consideration when choosing your topic is that it must be aligned to the programme you are studying, and you should consider the relevance of this topic to your future academic or professional development.

At this level, you will be expected to work independently but you will receive additional one-to-one support from your supervisor, who will be familiar with your chosen topic area. As you progress on the module, extra support will be available and this may take the form of group seminars, workshops and online materials that will help to develop your project.

Year Four (MEng only)

In order to complete this programme a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):

Group Integrated Master’s Project

40 credits

The purpose of the module is to enable you to undertake a sustained, in-depth and research-informed group project exploring an area that is of personal interest to you. In agreement with your supervisor, your group will decide upon your topic which will take the form of a practical outcome (artefact) with accompanying contextual material. The main consideration when choosing your group’s topic is that it must be aligned to the programme you are studying, and you should consider the relevance of this topic to your future academic or professional development.

This module provides you with an awareness of advanced structural techniques used for study of deformable solids, a general knowledge of the techniques employed and skills to perform analysis for selected solid components and structures. It aims to provide you with the following: the skills and confidence to perform advanced analysis of solid components and structures; the knowledge of selected advanced analysis techniques employed on the more common components and structures; and an understanding of the behaviour of solids under two or three dimensional stress fields, and the limitations imposed by assumptions and boundary conditions.

The module utilises the mathematical concepts such as transform calculus and matrix theory used to model systems using both the transfer function and state-space paradigms. You will then be able to design controllers for linear systems using time and frequency response methods, in particular, pole placement techniques will be applied using both input-output and state-feedback approaches. These will then be extended to observer design and LQR optimization.

Teaching and assessment will comprise not only of traditional lectures and tutorials, but also the use of industry standard software for problem solving.

The Automotive and Mechanical Engineering programmes share the common philosophy of one which aims to provide engineers with a rigorous grounding in industrial standard design, analysis and simulation capability. This module is consistent with this approach since it directly includes content and resources that specifically help you meet these needs.

A principal aim of both programmes is to respond to the market need for engineers who are competent and skilled in the use of advanced computer modelling and simulation techniques. This module delivers against this aim, providing you with a thorough technology grounding supported by directly relevant design, simulation and analysis experiences.

How you will learn

You will be taught through lectures, tutorials and seminars, as well as lab-based work. You will gain a range of transferrable skills, such as communication, teamwork and more.

Knowledge and understanding is assessed formatively by work-based learning and problem solving, in-class tasks, seminar work, peer assessment and learning sets. Summative assessment is by way of assignments, projects, presentations, time-controlled assignments and end examinations, where appropriate to the individual module.

Intellectual skills, particularly analytical and problem solving skills, are developed using a range of case-studies and problem / task-based learning scenarios, promoting self-directed learning facilitated by problem-based learning centred upon industry practice and its inherent problems.

Assessment of such activities includes practical simulation and design exercises and individual and group projects, in addition to the methods mentioned above.

Attendance requirements

There are 30 attendance weeks in each academic year.

A typical week on this course will include 12-15 hours per week of contact time over four days, plus self study.

Student stories

Steven Bourne

Experienced engineer Steven Bourne has gone all the way from apprentice to MSc, picking up awards and accolades along the way.

He works for Astrium, part of the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS) which provides civil and military space systems and services.

Since my graduation from the University, I have worked in the financial sector of the Greek parliament, and for the Ministry of Defence. This led me to the role I occupy today.

My course has provided me with some excellent engineering skills which have given me the confidence and ability to do this job. I believe my academic success has also given my employer the confidence to trust me with the responsibilities associated with my current job role

Laura Suddens

After completing an apprenticeship with world-renowned Industrial Gas Turbine Manufacturer Rolls-Royce, Laura Suddens was sponsored by the company to attend Birmingham City University. Laura negotiated the challenges that studying part-time presents, and with help from our supportive teaching, now works in the engineering sector for Siemens.

After completing my apprenticeship and HNC in Manufacturing Engineering with Rolls-Royce, I was sponsored by them to attend university. The part-time structure of Birmingham City University’s course ensured I could study on day release from work, and I also liked the look of the University’s course content.

Laura's advice for any future students is not to give up. In her opinion, if you put your mind to it and stay positive, anything is possible!

Kenneth Oguegbu

Kenneth Oguegbu’s academic achievements are pretty impressive. He achieved some excellent marks in his engineering degree, including a rare 86% in Maths Analysis – a module that often has even the brightest students racking their brains. But his contribution to engineering student life goes way beyond his studies…

Kenneth joined us armed with a National Diploma in Engineering from Nigeria’s Petroleum Training Institute – and an infectious enthusiasm for getting involved. “Warmth of character and unassuming manner are the first things that greet you on meeting Kenneth. This, coupled with his mature attitude, won over everyone he met,” says his Course Director, Dr David Ashman.

Study and work abroad

If you are interested in undertaking part of your studies abroad, the Erasmus scheme may be of interest to you. It allows higher education students to study for part of their degree in another European country.

It is open to undergraduates in their second year (or above) and offers a unique opportunity to enhance your CV and experience new cultures. If you study with us you will have access to an Erasmus co-ordinator, who can provide information about which institutions we have links with.

Further Study

You could enrol on our highly regarded MSc Mechanical Engineering programme once you have completed your BEng (Hons) degree. We also offer a range of research (PhD) postgraduate engineering programmes that are suitable for graduates of this course. Details can be found on the postgraduate section of the website.

Trips and visits

You also have the chance to take part in the Formula Studentevent, in which you and your team mates will get the opportunity to design and build your own 'BCU Racing' IMechE Formula Student car as part of a year-long project, and compete against 150 international universities over four days at the world-famous Silverstone racing track.

The event attracts world-class companies such as Jaguar Land Rover and GKN, who use the event to find their engineers of the future.

Student Anders Nielsen, who was the powertrain design leader in the 2014 Formula Student event, said: “I was really excited when I saw the car on the ground, it was just amazing.”

Karolis Griska, driver in the 2014 BCU Racing team, said: “I would say I’ve gained a lot of experience in every area: design and teamwork.”

Student stories Mark Digby

Highest marks ever seen

You’d think that working full-time alongside your degree might limit your achievements. Not for Mark Digby. This committed mature student picked up some remarkable results - including the highest mark we’ve ever seen in his final year modules!

Mark’s the first to admit it wasn’t easy. “I enjoyed my course,” he says, but he’s realistic about the amount of work involved. “It was very difficult as a part-time student. A long day at uni, plus normal work and assignments at weekends make it a challenge. But,” he concludes, “it was worth it in the end.”

Mark is still busy at Mercedes Benz HighPerformanceEngines, the company who supported him through his studies. He’s taking a well-earned year out from his studies to spend his new found spare time on his other passion – refurbishing classic cars. But we’re pretty sure higher academic pursuits are just around the corner…….

Enhancing your employability skills

There is a high demand for mechanical engineering graduates with the skills and knowledge provided by this course.

According to the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), there is a skills crisis in the UK engineering and technology sectors, with 87,000 more engineers needed each year for the next 10 years alone.

Through group work and project-based challenges, you will develop transferable and marketable skills and knowledge applicable to a variety of employment opportunities within the mechanical engineering and associated industries.

We will develop the skills, understandings and personal attributes that will help you stand out from the crowd when it comes to securing employment.

We will ensure you are professional, work-ready and enterprising, with a global outlook and the ability to solve problems creatively.

Women working in engineering - Katja's story

Katja Srbljanin was working for world-renowned company Rolls-Royce when they sponsored her to study a Mechanical Engineering course. After completing her dissertation, she won the IMechE Project Award at our 2015 student awards ceremony, and now works as Technical Communications Engineer for Siemens.

Placements

We aim to have you employer-ready by the time you graduate and as part of this commitment we encourage you to further enhance your career prospects by including an industrial placement in your course.

You will do your placement after the second year of study, which will extend the duration of your course to four years if you are studying on a full-time basis, and you’ll be supported throughout your time away.

Thanks to our excellent partnerships and strong relationships with industry, you could join the ranks of our students who have gained exceptionally high quality work experience at companies including Triumph , Cummins Ltd ., BMW, and Bosch.

Placements provide the workplace experience that many employers look for and give you an invaluable opportunity to develop your practical expertise, earn money and try out a potential career path.

OpportUNIty

OpportUNIty: Student Jobs on Campus ensures that our students are given a first opportunity to fill many part-time temporary positions within the University. This allows you to work while you study with us, fitting the job around your course commitments. By taking part in the scheme, you will gain valuable experiences and employability skills, enhancing your prospects in the job market.

It will also allow you to become more involved in University life by delivering, leading and supporting many aspects of the learning experience, from administration to research and mentoring roles.

BCU Graduate+

Through our courses we give you the skills and experience needed to get a head start when applying for jobs. But we offer something extra too – Graduate+.

Our unique programme gives you the chance to develop valuable skills outside of the more formal classroom learning. We award points for Graduate+ activities (including firewalking!) and these can be put towards a final Graduate+ award.

Graduate jobs

Thanks to our methods of teaching and learning, as well as our industry links and academic staff that can draw on years of relevant industry practice, our graduates have gone on to work for some of the UK’s most prestigious employers including:

Jaguar Land Rover

Morgan Motors

GKN

Bentley

Mercedes

Rolls-Royce

JCB

MG Motors

Triumph Motorcycles

BAe Systems

Aston Martin

Robert Bosch

Vauxhall Motors

Network Rail

GE Aviation

Nissan

BMW

the National Grid

Marshall Aerospace

Cosworth

Toyota

100%...of 2012/13 graduates from the four-year sandwich degree were in work or full time study six months after graduating2012/13 DLHE Response

Top career for getting a job

Engineering courses are one of the top 12 degree subjects for getting a job according to The Telegraph.

Around 85.4 per cent of graduates nationwide find work or go into further education within six months of finishing their degree.

Birmingham City University is a vibrant and multicultural university in the heart of a modern and diverse city. We welcome many international students every year – there are currently students from more than 80 countries among our student community.

The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.

Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:

Our international students

Our School is particularly popular with students from the Far East. We also welcome students every year from Brazil who are part of the prestigious Science Without Borders programme. They study a range of engineering modules in our School for a year – usually in the second year of their university programme.

Birmingham City University International College (BCUIC)

International students who have a serious interest in studying with us but who perhaps cannot meet the direct entry requirements, academic or English, or who have been out of education for some time, can enter Birmingham City University International College (BCUIC) and begin their degree studies.

BCUIC is part of the global Navitas Group, an internationally recognised education provider, and the partnership allows students to access the University’s facilities and services and move seamlessly through to achieving a Bachelor’s degree from Birmingham City University.

Popular home countries

Our Facilities

You will be based at our state-of-the-art Millennium Point building, located on our flagship City Centre Campus and you'll work on industry-standard complex analytical tools such as Matlab/Simulink, CATIA, Ansys and ADAMS Mechanisms.

We have an ongoing strategy to upgrade and further develop our well-equipped laboratories. These plans are supported by global technology providers such as PTC and Technosoft. These two companies alone have recently donated more than £11 million worth of computer aided design, product lifecycle management and knowledge-based engineering software.

In addition, more than £750,000 worth of capital investment has been made in upgrading our engine emissions test facilities, environmental laboratory and thermodynamics equipment.

Test Cell Facilities

The key features of our test cell include:

340 kW fully transient dynamometer

Full exhaust gas analysis both pre and post after treatment system

Ammonia slip analyser, EGR CO2, THC and non-methane HC

Exhaust Analysis

The key features of our exhaust analysis facilities include:

Signal Group Analysers in 3 racks with heated sample systems

Sierra BG-3 particulate mini-tunnel

AVL 415S smoke meter

Environmental Lab

The environmental lab is part of the Centre for Low Carbon Research (CLCR) and is home of the bioenergy and bioprocessing research group at the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment.

The suite is divided into three main areas a wet lab/pilot facility a fully equipped analytical suite and a microbiological lab. This newly refurbished facility offers state of the art analysis and testing of environmental samples as well as scientific evaluation of lab scale and pilot scale technologies and processes.

Learning from industry experts

Discover more about the industry experts you can meet on our Engineering degree courses.

Laura Leyland is one of our lecturers, watch this video to find out more.

Man-Fai Yau

Senior Lecturer

Man-Fai has 10 years' experience in private sector industry, two years' with a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) and 12 years' university lecturing.

Dr Ricardo Sodre PhD

Associate Professor in Automotive Engineering

Dr José Ricardo Sodréreceived his PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST), in the UK, in 1995. He currently works as a Senior Lecturer at Birmingham City University, UK, where he is the automotive engineering team leader, and as a Professor at the Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, in Brazil. He has been a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and the Brazilian Society of Mechanical Sciences and Engineering (ABCM), and acts as a consultant to several government research funding agencies in Brazil and other Latin American countries, including CAPES, CNPq and FAPEMIG.